

Podcast Answer Man
Cliff Ravenscraft
For the past twenty years, I have been immersed in the world of podcasting. I’ve produced more than fifty-five of my own shows and published over 4,800 episodes. As a podcast consultant, I’ve trained tens of thousands of people on how to successfully launch their show and build a profitable business around their expertise.
Podcast Answer Man is where you can bring every question you have about podcasting. Gear. Workflow. Strategy. Audience growth. Monetization. Industry shifts. The landscape is always changing. I may not have every answer on the spot. I do know how to find the right answer for you, and I’m eager to be of service.
If you want a clear, dependable guide in a noisy industry, this is the place. Each episode is focused on practical insight, proven experience, and the mindset required to create content that serves your audience and supports the business you want to build.
Ask your questions. I’ll help you find your path forward in podcasting.
Podcast Answer Man is where you can bring every question you have about podcasting. Gear. Workflow. Strategy. Audience growth. Monetization. Industry shifts. The landscape is always changing. I may not have every answer on the spot. I do know how to find the right answer for you, and I’m eager to be of service.
If you want a clear, dependable guide in a noisy industry, this is the place. Each episode is focused on practical insight, proven experience, and the mindset required to create content that serves your audience and supports the business you want to build.
Ask your questions. I’ll help you find your path forward in podcasting.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 17, 2024 • 1h 33min
469 - Is It Worth Having A Video Version of Your Audio Podcast?
Have you ever felt the magic of something you love slowly slipping away? In this episode, I share how my experiment with creating a video version of this podcast was diminishing the magic of my beloved audio-first approach to creating podcast content.
Tune in to this in-depth exploration of the potential value of creating a video version of an audio-only podcast. I share the highs, lows, and the pivotal decision that brought the spark back to my content creation journey.
Summary:
I recount my recent journey of returning to a consistent weekly production schedule. With a desire to maximize my reach, I decided to create a live-streamed video version of my podcast. Despite my extensive experience with live streaming and video production, I soon realized that my current approach was introducing more challenges than benefits.
I share my history with live streaming, from early audio live shows via SkypeCast to video streaming on Ustream, and the transition back to audio-only content, until just recently. I discuss the technical hurdles and time demands that came with producing high-quality video content, and how these challenges led me to reconsider my approach.
After recounting my recent explorations and the lessons I've learned, I offer recommendations for those considering adding a video version to their audio-first podcast. Join me on this evolving journey as I deliver valuable insights to help you weigh the pros and cons of creating a video version while preserving the essence of your audio-first podcasting approach.
Join My New Group Coaching Program for Early-Stage Entrepreneurs!
Are you an early-stage entrepreneur or an aspiring one? If so, I have some exciting news for you! I am launching a brand new group coaching program starting on January 9. This weekly, 90-minute session is designed to teach you everything you need to know about building a successful and profitable online business.
Here's what you can expect from this program:
Weekly 90-Minute Sessions: Each session will cover essential elements of building an online business. I will share all the valuable insights and strategies I have learned over the years.
Access to Exclusive Course: You will get access to my existing "Building an Online Business" course, along with all-new content created during our sessions.
Direct Interaction and Q&A: Every session includes a direct Q&A segment where you can ask me anything related to your business journey.
Ongoing Support: Whether you're just starting or already running an online business but not yet hitting the $10,000/month income mark, this program is for you.
Recorded Sessions: Can't make it to a live session? No problem! Every session will be recorded and uploaded to a dedicated archive. You'll receive an email notification with a summary and timestamps, so you can easily find and revisit the topics that interest you most.
This program will provide you with incredible access to mentorship, coaching, and the support you need to take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level.
Interested? Here's How to Join: Email me at cliff@cliffravenscraft.com with the subject line "Online Coaching Program For Business Owners". Let me know you heard about this offer, and I'll get back to you with more details and answer any questions you might have.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your business and achieve your goals. Take action now and secure your spot in this transformative coaching program.
Until next time, I encourage you to take everything you do to the next level.
Cliff Ravenscraft
Jun 8, 2024 • 1h 8min
468 - Let’s Put An End To The Myth of The Overnight Success
I’ve been observing an alarming trend. Many people are prematurely quitting their day jobs, having fallen for the myth of overnight success. In this episode, I will discuss the myth of overnight success and its negative impact on the wellbeing of those who believe in it. I will introduce three questions to consider before quitting your day job and four essential business foundations to establish beforehand. Additionally, I will provide three suggestions for those who may have prematurely left their day jobs.
Next Level Mastermind
As a self-employed business owner, applying for the Next Level Mastermind could be the transformative decision that propels your business and personal growth to unprecedented heights. This mastermind group is designed specifically for driven entrepreneurs like you who seek not only to excel in their business ventures but also to live a life marked by fulfillment, peace, and continuous learning.
By joining, you will connect with like-minded professionals in a supportive, collaborative environment that challenges you to surpass your current boundaries. Whether it's overcoming obstacles, strategizing for growth, or simply finding your path to personal satisfaction, the Next Level Mastermind provides the community, resources, and expert guidance necessary to make each step forward impactful.
Don't miss this chance to elevate your business and yourself. Apply today at NextLevelMastermind.info.
Outline for this episode
Central Theme(s)
Let’s put an end to the Myth of The Overnight Success.
Let’s stop the trend of people quitting their day jobs prematurely.
Three Questions To Ask Before You Quit Day Job
Do I have a track record of meeting the needs of a community of people?
Are people telling other people about the important work that I am doing in the world?
Are people coming to me and asking me for help with an offer to pay for that help?
Four Key Foundations For A Thriving Business
Financial Stability
A Proven and sustainable business model.
(Validated Products/Services)
Significant Savings (Min 9-12 months runway)
Revenue Consistency
A regular and sufficient income from the business.
An understanding of the true timeline for building a profitable business.
Mindset Development
An ability to manage emotions, unmet expectations and significant risk.
Skill Development
A commitment to developing necessary entrepreneurial skills.
(Time Management, Pricing, Sales, Marketing, Software, etc.)
Three Recommendations For Those Who Have Quit The Day Job Prematurely
Review The Financial Health of the Business
Evaluate current financial situation. Discover and document any potential financial gaps.
Identify alternative income sources if necessary.
Strengthen Business Foundations
Focus on building a consistent client base.
Refine products/services to meet market demand.
Your Product/Service should MEET DEMAND, not try to create it.
Mindset and Continued Learning
Invest in your growth in the area of mindset and emotional state management.
Consistently expand your professional skill development. (Especially in the areas of sales and marketing)
May 23, 2024 • 51min
467 - Turning Podcasting Failures into Success: My Top Three Mistakes Over The Past Four Years
In this episode, I open up about the top three mistakes I've made over the past four years.
I'll share how stopping my weekly podcast content, neglecting consistent email communication with my audience, and abandoning my life-giving early morning routine impacted my journey.
Join me as I share the lessons I've learned from these mistakes and how they are shaping my approach moving forward.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, content creator, or someone striving for personal growth, there's something valuable in these reflections for you.
Next Level Mastermind
As a self-employed business owner, applying for the Next Level Mastermind could be the transformative decision that propels your business and personal growth to unprecedented heights. This mastermind group is designed specifically for driven entrepreneurs like you who seek not only to excel in their business ventures but also to live a life marked by fulfillment, peace, and continuous learning.
By joining, you will connect with like-minded professionals in a supportive, collaborative environment that challenges you to surpass your current boundaries. Whether it's overcoming obstacles, strategizing for growth, or simply finding your path to personal satisfaction, the Next Level Mastermind provides the community, resources, and expert guidance necessary to make each step forward impactful.
Don't miss this chance to elevate your business and yourself. Apply today at NextLevelMastermind.info.
May 16, 2024 • 1h 5min
466 - Graham Cochrane | Do You Know Who You Are And What You Truly Want Out of Life?
Most people are living a life that’s not even close to the life of their dreams. Some people are living parts of their dream, but they feel something is missing. Many feel stuck in this season of life or go through their day with a sense that they were made for something more. In a word, life has been an overall disappointment. The reason? We are all just conforming to the world around us, never stopping to ask ourselves who we truly are and what we truly want out of life.
The secret to a fulfilling life is to figure out who you are, what dreams light you up, what you care deeply about, and then unashamedly live as your truest, most authentic self in spite of what everyone around you is doing or saying. In today’s culture this is called being a “rebel”—which simply means: do it your way. But how?
In this powerful session, bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and 7-figure entrepreneur Graham Cochrane teaches his 5 part R.E.B.E.L. Framework which will give you actionable exercises and steps to uncover your uniqueness, create a personalized vision for your life and unpack a simple way to discover your purpose.
Pre-Order Graham’s New Book at TheRebelBook.com
Transform Your Professional Life with Experienced Coaching
At the end of this episode, Graham emphasized the importance of working with coaches who can facilitate the achievement of your most ambitious goals. As someone who has worked closely with numerous elite entrepreneurs, I have a proven track record of assisting my clients during some of the most significant pivots in their personal and professional lives.
If you are interested in learning more about having me as your coach, email me right away at Cliff@CliffRavenscraft.com with the subject line "Coaching."
Apr 2, 2024 • 1h 3min
465 - The Number One Method For Growing Your Audience
In this podcast episode, I interview my dear friend Jessica Rhodes about her podcast guesting service business, Interview Connections, which she started in 2013.
Over the past decade, her business has become a powerful entity that helps individuals reach their ideal clients and expand their audience.
Listen in to learn valuable tips on how to make a strong impact when given the opportunity to be a guest on other people's podcasts.
Hear are just a few of the key insights from this episode
Appearing as a guest on other podcasts has proven to be the most effective method for reaching your ideal clients and exposing your message to a large audience.
Over the past decade, I have referred numerous clients to Interview Connections and have received entirely positive feedback.
The importance of thorough preparation for podcast interviews cannot be overstated. This includes researching the host and having a clear call to action.
Having a clear call to action is important, but possessing unwavering confidence in the value of your course of action is the key to eliciting responses.
There is a need to be fully present and engaged during interviews to establish a connection with the listeners and hosts.
Using a clear, compelling "one sheet" to make it easy for hosts to say yes and ask questions that help you achieve your goals.
Audience size numbers from directories are not accurate or transparent, and the right audience is more important than a large size.
Thorough onboarding, training, and pitching over multiple months is important for services like Interview Connections to deliver top-notch results.
Authenticity and vulnerability build strong business relationships, and local employees provide personalized service better than outsourcing.
Referral partnerships can help promote services when there is trust, integrity, and a track record of success.
Ongoing coaching can help overcome mindset blocks keeping clients from achieving their goals.
Jessica Rhodes has been running her "Interview Connections" podcast guesting service for over a decade. Our conversation in this podcast episode has convinced me to be a long-term advocate for her company.
I fully endorse Jessica Rhodes and her podcast booking services. Book a call with Jessica today at InterviewConnections.com. Let her know that Cliff sent you.
Nov 10, 2023 • 1h 10min
464 - From Seven Years of Intention To Taking Action Within 7 Days
In today's episode, I share a transformative conversation highlighting how one coaching session can shift years of aspirations into rapid reality.
Recently, I had the pleasure of coaching Ryan Hamilton, a visionary who had been nurturing the dream of launching his own podcast and becoming an industry thought leader for seven years. During our intensive 90-minute session, Ryan sought to break free from the shackles of perfectionism and to gain momentum on his journey. We focused on practical steps that would empower him to "get the train out of the station" and bring his long-awaited passion project to the world.
This episode underscores a vital lesson: the 'perfect' time or idea is a myth that often impedes progress. Taking incremental, yet deliberate, steps can ignite a powerful chain reaction, propelling your dreams into existence. It’s about progress, not perfection.
My hope is that Ryan’s story and our coaching conversation inspire you to translate your intentions into tangible steps. Remember, starting with even the smallest act can lay the groundwork for greater achievements. And if you’re seeking guidance or a collaborative brainstorm to advance your objectives, I'm here to lend my expertise.
For those interested in exploring the Next Level Mastermind or a one-on-one coaching relationship, reach out to me directly at Cliff@CliffRavenscraft.com and use “Coaching” as your email subject. Let's make your vision a reality, together.
Be sure to check out Ryan's "Make Real Stuff" podcast. Click here for a link to episode 001.
Oct 16, 2023 • 1h 20min
463 - Why I Transitioned All My Podcast Hosting to Kajabi: A Game-Changing Insight
In this info-packed episode, I'm joined by my longtime friend and fellow online business expert Ray Edwards to dive deep into why we believe Kajabi is the ultimate all-in-one platform for online business owners.
Ray and I take a trip down memory lane to remember the "bad old days" of cobbling together a frankenstein's monster of different tools, services, and platforms just to create and sell an online course or membership site. We share horror stories of downtime, limited storage and bandwidth, security issues, and the general hassle of managing it all.
We then explain how Kajabi changed everything for us and made our online businesses infinitely easier to manage. Key benefits I discuss include:
Robust website hosting with amazing uptime and security
Unlimited storage for videos, audios, PDFs, images - No Caps!
Unlimited bandwidth - no traffic overage charges
Built-in payment processing, coupons, subscriptions, etc.
Full featured email marketing and automation
Easy course and membership site creation
Podcast hosting and distribution
Webinars, coaching, and live streaming
Affiliate program tracking and payments
Page builder and templates optimized for marketing and sales
Active user community for peer support
And so much more!
And all this for just $159/month on the Growth plan! Ray and I agree this is an amazing value compared to paying for individual tools and services.
Whether you're just starting out or already have an established online business, Kajabi has everything you need to create, market, sell, and deliver your digital products and services all in one place.
Listen now to hear our full discussion and decide for yourself if Kajabi could be a gamechanger for your online business!
Ready to transform your online business with Kajabi? Sign up using my affiliate link and experience the difference for yourself!
Affiliate Link: http://MindsetAnswerMan.com/Kajabi
Jun 23, 2023 • 53min
462 - Don't Make The Mistake of Starting With A Podcast - How To Build An Online Business
In this episode, I share a recording from a recent Ask Me Anything session that I hosted. During the session, Kristy posted the following question in the chat: "I need courage to start a blog that I can monetize. Do you have any words of wisdom? I've tried starting a blog in the past but struggled with maintaining consistency. I don't want to fall into old habits. Please advise. Thanks!"
In response, I shared a powerful story to illustrate why Kristy may have been struggling to find the courage to consistently create content for her blog and take the necessary steps towards monetizing it. Following this, I discussed the most common mistake that bloggers and podcasters make when they are looking to establish an online business, and offered advice on how to avoid falling into the same trap.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE BUILDING AN ONLINE BUSINESS WORKSHOP
Jun 20, 2023 • 55min
461 - The Rich Tapestry of Pat Flynn's Online Ventures: Successes, Missteps, and Lessons
In this episode of The Cliff Ravenscraft Show, I had the pleasure to deep dive into the creative side of the multifaceted Pat Flynn.
Pat, an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and the brain behind "Smart Passive Income," shares how his identity has evolved over time. We talk about how his love for fishing has offered him peace away from his bustling life and business. His answer to why he's here iwas simply profound: to serve and help others.
You'll discover to top 3 things that Pat is most proud of creating and how Pat expresses the value of time over money, which he learned while building his team for SPI media.Pat's new venture into the Pokémon YouTube channel "Deep Pocket Monster" and his strategy behind it is a true testament to his creative spirit.His story of walking away from his Premium WordPress Plugins project offers valuable lessons about knowing what you want and validating your ideas.Ending on a thoughtful note, Pat revealed his desire to be an "Agent of Change in the Education Space," and how he's creating space and boundaries in his life for peace.
Pat Flynn Links
Let Go Book
Will It Fly? Book
Superfans Book
SmartPassiveIncome.com
Pat Flynn YouTube Channel
Pat’s Deep Pocket Monster Channel
Other Links Shared At The End of The Episode
Building An Online Business Workshop
Day With Cliff Mentoring Offer
Next Level Mastermind
Jan 28, 2023 • 26min
460 - Why Most Podcasters Fail To Generate Income From Their Podcasting Efforts
Several years ago, I realized that my brand, Podcast Answer Man, wasn't fully reflecting the guidance I was providing to those seeking strategies, tools and techniques to [fill in the blank]. That's why I decided to evolve my brand to Mindset Answer Man - to provide a better indication of the kind of advice I was giving.
As the result of working with so many people, I began to recognize patterns between those who were successful in achieving their podcasting goals and those who were not. What I found was that despite having helped many people launch their podcasts, many of them had built their podcasting efforts on a shaky foundation, leaving them unable to experience the full potential of podcasting.
In this episode, I explore how important the order of operations of STATE, STORY, and STRATEGY is to creating the most successful outcomes.
Are you looking to drive growth and increase the visibility of your business?
I am a Master Business Coach, Mentor & Speaker.
I have over fifteen years of experience in online business. Through my business, I've helped tens of thousands of people find their purpose and passion and create an online, personal brand and business that allows them to have a powerful, positive and profound impact in the world.
I have generated millions of dollars through online course sales, physical products, one-off training tutorials, paid webinars, public speaking, in person workshops, conferences, paid mastermind groups, one-on-one coaching and several other streams of income.
I want to help you break free from anything that is holding you back from living the life of your dreams and doing the work you feel most called to do in this world. Below are the the products and services that I know will allow you to take your message, your business and your life to the next level.
1. Train With Cliff Audio Journal Podcast - This "audio journal format" podcast provides invaluable insights that my high-paying clients receive from me directly, plus exclusive, never-before-seen behind-the-scenes knowledge about how I run my business. My clients have found this podcast so valuable that nearly all of them have subscribed to it. Click Here To Learn More.
2. Free The Dream Online Course - Are you struggling to make your dream or goal a reality? Don't waste any more time! Take the time to go through the six-hours of content in the Free The Dream Online Course and unlock the power of transformation. Whether you choose to go through the material in a single day or take a weekend retreat, you will find yourself completely changed after your experience with this course. Discover the world from a new perspective and unleash the potential that lies within. Click Here To Free Your Dream Today.
3. Next Level Mastermind - If you're a full-time self-employed professional and not yet part of an ongoing mastermind group, it's time to take action! Stop what you're doing and take advantage of all the incredible video content and written content about mastermind groups found at NextLevelMastermind.info. Unlock the power of collaboration and networking with like-minded professionals and be part of a group that will help you achieve success! Click Here To Apply Today!
4. One-On-One Coaching - God has blessed me with extraordinary gifts and the ability to help clients uncover solutions they can't see on their own. No matter the problem or desired outcome, I can help guide you on the path to success – with multiple paths available to explore. Through one-on-one coaching, I'll equip you with the tools and confidence to reach your highest potential. Click Here To Apply For One-On-One Coaching With Me.
Of course you might be interested in some of my other free content
Click Here To See My Other Podcast Shows
Click Here For My Best Keynote Message “All Beliefs Have Consequences.”


